Saints boss Mallinder’s praise for utility back Wilson

Wilson scored a try in Friday night’s 17-13 win against Harlequins at Franklin’s Gardens, adding to his score in the success at Bath six days earlier.

The Kiwi utility back has stepped up to the mark in the absence of Ben Foden, who is out for the rest of the season with a knee injury.

And Mallinder has been delighted with the contribution of the 31-year-old, who now has five tries to his name this season.

“James showed some brilliant touches on Friday night,” said the director of rugby.

“I was a little bit disappointed he couldn’t hold onto the pass which may have given us a bonus point, but generally he had a good game.

“Some of his kicking was very, very good and he ran hard.

“He’s played very well the past couple of weeks.”